Museum of Science & History (MoSH) Pink Palace
Explore history and science in a stunning pink mansion, featuring dinosaurs, interactive exhibits, and captivating planetarium shows.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interactive fun
Museum of Science & History (MoSH) Pink Palace
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interactive fun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore history and science in a stunning pink mansion, featuring dinosaurs, interactive exhibits, and captivating planetarium shows.
"A beloved Memphis landmark offering a blend of history, science, and nostalgic childhood memories."
Check Showtimes First
Planetarium and IMAX shows have specific times. Plan your visit around them for the best experience! :movie_camera:
Interactive Fun for Kids
The space area and dinosaur exhibits are big hits with younger visitors. :dinosaur:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Pink Palace Mansion
Main building
Explore the historic mansion, once a private residence, now filled with fascinating exhibits.
Dinosaur Hall
Main building
Marvel at impressive dinosaur skeletons, including a life-sized T-Rex replica.
Piggly Wiggly Replica
Main building
Step back in time with a unique replica of the first Piggly Wiggly grocery store.
Planetarium & IMAX
Attached theater complex
Experience captivating shows and laser light concerts in the planetarium and IMAX theater.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Family Fun & Field Trips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Showtimes First
Planetarium and IMAX shows have specific times. Plan your visit around them for the best experience! :movie_camera:
Interactive Fun for Kids
The space area and dinosaur exhibits are big hits with younger visitors. :dinosaur:
Mansion's Second Floor
Don't miss the miniature circus on the second floor, but check operating times! :circus_tent:
Beat the Memphis Heat
A perfect indoor escape from the summer heat, offering hours of exploration. :sunwithface:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Showtimes First
Planetarium and IMAX shows have specific times. Plan your visit around them for the best experience! :movie_camera:
Interactive Fun for Kids
The space area and dinosaur exhibits are big hits with younger visitors. :dinosaur:
Mansion's Second Floor
Don't miss the miniature circus on the second floor, but check operating times! :circus_tent:
Beat the Memphis Heat
A perfect indoor escape from the summer heat, offering hours of exploration. :sunwithface:
Childhood Nostalgia
Many locals have fond memories of school trips here; relive yours! :school_satchel:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally find the Museum of Science & History (Pink Palace) to be a worthwhile destination, especially for families and those seeking an indoor escape from the heat. Highlights include the impressive dinosaur exhibits, the historic mansion, and engaging planetarium shows. Some reviews mention that certain exhibits could be updated and that cleanliness could be improved in some areas.
"They opened up a lot of the mansion. The 2nd floor has the miniture circus. It only operates 1 time a day at 11 and the ac is not working. The 1st gfloor has several interactive spots."
James Sanders
"Unspectacular. There were a few interesting exhibits but not much new. I could see where the only interesting part for a child would be the Space area that's more, hands on. A few of the staff were pretty cool but there were a few that didn't even speak when directly asked a question. Which is beyond rude. I was approached and asked if my name was Shawn by a male personnel, which was weird and completely uncalled-for. The entire museum feels sticky and dirty. I don't think there was a single plate of glass in the entire building that wasn't smudged and a few of the dinosaurs were literally patched up or had skin "hanging" from them. The space area was very small but neat and the pass through ultimately was 2 hours of very unpredictable historical information. One minute it's natural history, then cotton, then Medical. It has no flow whatsoever. I remember some of these same exact set ups from second grade. Hopefully the classrooms and programs are much livelier."
Michael Richardson
"We loved it. It was great seeing all the different animals skeletons, learning about the unique history of Piggly Wiggly and how the Pink Palace came to be. The dinosaur exhibit was excellent and seeing how massive a Mastodon is was incredible."
Steven Stoddard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pink Palace is located at 3050 Central Ave, Memphis, TN 38111. It's accessible by car, and there is parking available on-site. Public transportation options may also be available; check with Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) for routes and schedules.
Yes, the Museum of Science & History offers parking for visitors. It's advisable to arrive a bit early, especially on weekends or during special events, to secure a spot.
Driving is a common way to reach the Pink Palace. Ride-sharing services are also readily available in Memphis. For a more local experience, consider MATA buses if routes align with your itinerary.
The Pink Palace is located a few miles east of downtown Memphis, making it a significant walk. It's generally recommended to use a car, ride-share, or public transport rather than walking.
Yes, there are several hotels located in the vicinity of the Pink Palace and the broader Memphis area, offering various price points and amenities for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary depending on the exhibits and any special events. It's best to check the official Museum of Science & History website for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially for popular shows in the planetarium or IMAX theater, and to potentially save time upon arrival.
The museum's hours can vary by day and season. Always check the official MoSH website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
Many museums offer discounted admission for specific groups. It's advisable to inquire directly with the museum or check their website for any available discount programs.
Often, museums offer package deals or combination tickets that allow access to multiple attractions for a bundled price. Inquire at the ticket counter or check online for these options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the impressive dinosaur hall with a T-Rex, the historic Pink Palace mansion itself, the Piggly Wiggly replica, and interactive science exhibits. The planetarium and IMAX theater also offer unique experiences.
Absolutely! The museum is very family-friendly with many interactive exhibits, a dedicated dinosaur hall, and engaging shows in the planetarium, making it a hit with children. +1
The miniature circus is a detailed, intricate display that's a unique attraction. It typically operates at specific times, so check the schedule upon arrival.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibits to protect artifacts. Always look for signage or ask staff if unsure.
A typical visit can range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your interest level and whether you plan to see shows in the planetarium or IMAX. Some visitors spend longer if they engage with all interactive elements.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum typically has a cafe or snack bar offering light refreshments and snacks. For full meals, you might need to explore dining options outside the museum.
Outside food and drinks are usually not permitted inside the museum galleries. There might be designated areas for picnics, but it's best to confirm their policy.
Museum cafes often serve grab-and-go items like sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. The offerings can vary, so check their menu if available.
Yes, the area surrounding the Pink Palace has various dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants, catering to different tastes and budgets.
The museum often provides options for hosting private events and birthday parties. Contact their events department for details on packages and availability.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand architecture of the mansion itself, the dinosaur skeletons, and the interactive science exhibits offer great photo opportunities. The planetarium and IMAX lobby can also be visually interesting.
Flash photography is often prohibited in museum exhibits to protect delicate artifacts and prevent disruption. Always look for signs or ask staff for guidance.
Professional photoshoots may require special permission or fees. It's best to contact the museum's administration in advance to inquire about their policy.
Similar to photography, filming for personal use is usually permitted, but commercial filming or extensive video recording might need prior approval.
A versatile camera with good low-light capabilities is recommended, especially for the planetarium shows. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of exhibits and the mansion's architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to avoid the largest crowds, especially if you have toddlers who might get overwhelmed. Pack snacks and drinks, or plan to visit the on-site cafe for a quick bite. It's a place that many Memphians remember from their own childhoods, making it a perfect spot to share those nostalgic memories with your kids.
💡 Budget Travelers
Packing your own snacks and water can help save money on food purchases inside the museum.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay attention to the details within the mansion's architecture and the curated displays that tell the story of Memphis. It’s a chance to connect with the city’s heritage in a tangible way, moving beyond just reading about it in books.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Pink Palace Mansion
Visitors often appreciate the blend of historical preservation and educational displays. The mansion houses various permanent exhibits, including those detailing the natural history of the region and the development of Memphis. It's a place where history comes alive, offering a unique perspective on the city's heritage.
While the mansion is a highlight, some visitors note that certain areas, like the second floor's miniature circus, have specific operating times and may not always have optimal climate control. However, the overall experience of walking through this grand estate is a memorable part of any visit.
Science and Discovery: Dinosaurs to Space
Beyond paleontology, the museum offers engaging interactive science exhibits designed to spark curiosity. These hands-on displays cover various scientific principles, making learning fun and accessible. The Space area is particularly noted for being neat and offering a more hands-on approach to astronomy and space exploration, even if it's a smaller section.
For an immersive experience, the planetarium and IMAX theater are essential. They host a variety of shows, from educational documentaries about the cosmos to entertaining laser light concerts featuring popular music artists. These performances are a fantastic way to complement your museum visit.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
For families, the museum is a fantastic destination. It’s a place that many locals remember fondly from childhood field trips, making it a great spot to create new memories with your own children.
Some reviews mention that certain areas might feel a bit dated or could benefit from updates, with occasional notes on cleanliness. However, the overall consensus is that the Pink Palace offers a valuable and enjoyable experience, especially for those interested in history, science, and a touch of nostalgia.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit